A MOTHER whose son died in NHS care has collected 50,000 signatures on a petition calling for a full public inquiry in his death.

Melanie Leahy, of Tolleshunt Knights, wants a public hearing after her son, Matthew, died at the Linden Centre in Chelmsford at the age of 20.

Matthew was admitted to the mental health unit in 2012 with a delusional disorder caused by cannabis use. He was found hanged seven days later.

Three nurses were later disciplined by the Nursing and Midwifery Council for falsifying vital care plans for Matthew, which never existed while he was in their care.

An inquest into Matthew’s death found there had been multiple failings in his care.

Ms Leahy’s petition must reach 100,000 signatures before its deadline on November 23 to be considered for debate in Parliament.

If it hits the target, an inquiry can be launched at which witnesses will be asked to give evidence under oath.

The petition has received backing from Home Secretary, Witham MP Priti Patel, as well as the mental health charity SANE and former care minister Norman Lamb.

Ms Leahy said: “If we can get this to debate, then every other family nationwide who has had a problem with the services will have the courage to speak up.

“The petition is about getting things changed for others. Change needs to come sooner rather than later.

“At the end of the day talking about mental health is great but we need these services to be safe.”

An investigation into the deaths of 25 people who were in the care of the Essex Partnership Trust, including Matthew’s, was dropped last year.

Although Essex Police uncovered “clear and basic failings”, they decided there was insufficient evidence to bring corporate manslaughter charges and investigators said they will take no further action.

Ms Leahy added: “I’ve had thousands of messages from other people who have given up on the complaints procedure and they want me to do it for them.

“Reaching 50,000 was a massive milestone. We’ve been climbing that hill and now we’re on the homewards stretch.

“Although there’s still no guarantee, I want to get to that point where we reach 100,000, because that can’t be ignored.”

To sign the petition, visit petition.parliament.uk/petitions/255823.